Australia's largest Christmas celebration, Carols In The Domain, will take on a poignant significance this Saturday night as it returns to Sydney. The event, hosted once again by Sunrise presenters Nat Barr and Matt Shirvington, will honour the victims of the tragic events at Bondi Beach on December 14.
A Community Comes Together in Reflection
While the Sydney event has long been a symbol of festive joy, organisers say this year's gathering carries a deeper meaning. The traditional candle lighting ceremony will feature a special moment of reflection dedicated to those lost in the Bondi tragedy. Several songs performed on the night will also be dedicated to the victims and their families.
"After such a deeply challenging time for so many Australians, and with the heartbreaking loss of innocent lives still fresh in our minds, this year’s event feels more important than ever," Nat Barr said. She described the carols as a chance to pause, honour those lost, and stand together as a community.
A New Chapter with The Salvation Army
This year marks a historic shift for the 43-year-old event, as The Salvation Army steps in as the official naming partner for the first time. The charity's impressive 100-member choir has been rehearsing extensively for the performance.
"It’s a tough gig," Salvation Army commissioner Mark Campbell admitted on Sunrise. "You have to learn a lot of songs — some artists only do three."
Executive Producer Michael McKay confirmed the event would gently acknowledge the recent tragedy while providing familiar Christmas comfort. "It will be a night where families, and especially young children, can feel comforted by the familiarity, warmth and togetherness that Christmas brings," he said.
Star-Studded Lineup for a Night of Hope
The musical lineup for the evening is both heartfelt and star-studded. Alongside The Salvation Army choir, performers will include children's entertainment icons The Wiggles, singer Kate Miller-Heidke, international pop legend Leo Sayer, and Australian music royalty Marcia Hines.
For The Wiggles, who have performed at the carols for over 30 years, the show holds special significance. "The Carols performance is the last show we do for the year," said Red Wiggle Simon Pryce. "It’s a special occasion with family and friends." Purple Wiggle Lachy Gillespie, a dad to five-year-old twins, joked about the busy festive season, even revealing the name of the family's new puppy: Benjamin Sprinkles.
Co-host Matt Shirvington summed up the sentiment, calling this year's event a "powerful symbol of resilience." "Sydney is a city that rallies together," he said, "and this event is our chance to show that spirit through music. It’s about reminding ourselves that even in tough times, we can create moments of hope and connection."
Australia’s most cherished Christmas tradition, The Salvation Army’s Carols In The Domain, will be broadcast live on Saturday at 8.00pm on Seven and 7plus.
